What is the minimum following distance you should maintain behind another vehicle?

Maintaining a minimum following distance of at least three seconds behind another vehicle is essential for safe driving. This rule of thumb allows for a buffer zone that provides enough time to react in case the vehicle in front suddenly brakes or encounters an obstacle.

The three-second rule offers a practical way to measure this distance: when the vehicle in front passes a fixed point, such as a sign or a tree, you should be able to count three seconds before your vehicle reaches the same point. This timing helps account for varying driving conditions, such as weather, road conditions, and the speed at which you are traveling.

Adopting a following distance of at least three seconds enhances your ability to stop safely and reduces the risk of rear-end collisions, as it allows for adequate reaction time in most driving situations.